PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. - Central Arizona College will hold a series of General Education Development (GED) prep classes at several locations throughout Pinal County during the 2013 spring semester.

CAC is encouraging students to register for the GED prep classes this semester so they may take the current GED exam prior to the implementation of a new test by the GED Testing Service in January 2014.

The cost of the new computer-based GED exam is expected to be significantly higher.

CAC will offer a College and Career Pathways program at the Casa Grande Center and Superstition Mountain Campus for GED students who are interested in pursuing a college degree or a new career.

This GED: Gateway to Success course, combined with GED preparation, is designed to help prepare students for success in the classroom as well as provide transition tools to higher education and/or career pathways.

Students will learn about available college resources and will be introduced to career information resources in order to construct career plans.

Students may pre-register for the GED prep classes or the GED: Gateway to Success course beginning on Thursday, Jan. 3, at the Casa Grande Center or Superstition Mountain Campus.

Students should bring proof of legal presence in the United States. Pre-testing will be required prior to the first day of class; test dates will be provided at the time of registration.

The College also will also offer regular GED classes to help students earn their General Educational Development (GED) diploma. Classes will be divided into two eight-week periods and are currently provided at no cost for Arizona residents.

Beginning on Thursday, Jan. 3, students may pre-register at any one of Central Arizona College's locations with proof of legal presence in the United States. Pre-testing will be required prior to the first day of class; test dates will be provided at the time of registration.

Students taking class at one of the following locations in Eastern Pinal County are encouraged to pre-register at any one of Central Arizona College's locations or they may register onsite on the first night of the class. Proof of legal presence in the United States is required. These locations are: